May 18–20 • Baltimore, Maryland
Don’t miss our 2026 Annual Conference, the world’s largest gathering of the independent educational consulting community.
Conference highlights include:
- 80+ exploring adolescent issues, admission trends, financial aid, and other topics shaping the IEC profession
- A College & Postsecondary Fair featuring colleges, gap programs, LD postsecondary options, and related service companies
- A K-12 School Exchange bringing together LD/ND and traditional schools as well as online programs
- A Therapeutic Information Swap offering networking opportunities for therapeutic schools, programs, and IECs
- A Networking Reception celebrating 51³Ô¹Ï’s 50th anniversary for all conference participants
- Presentation of the annual 51³Ô¹Ï Member Awards
- New Technology Spotlights showcasing cutting-edge tools and apps for IECs
- And much more!
ACE Speakers
Monday, May 18
These renowned thought leaders will deliver dynamic, engaging presentations on Adolescence, Consulting, and Education (ACE).
Meaning Is the New Success
In a culture that prizes achievement and busyness, meaning often gets pushed aside. Students feel constant pressure to perform, and so do the adults who support them. In this keynote, psychologist and Boston College professor Dr. Belle Liang will offer a research-based redefinition of success grounded in purpose and belonging.
The Future Is Human: How Al Requires Us to Be Better Leaders
As AI accelerates change, human skills—not technology—will define effective leadership. In this keynote, future-of-work expert Cheryl Cran will highlight why compassion, creativity, communication, and collaboration are more essential than ever, even in an era of automation and intelligent tools.
College Special Session
Wednesday, May 20
Careers of Tomorrow: Preparing Students for Jobs of the Future
The workforce today’s students will enter is transforming at unprecedented speed—and many of the jobs they’ll hold haven’t been invented yet. Drawing on insights from future-focused and educators, this session will offer context on the trends reshaping work for the next decade.
Pre-Conference Workshops
Monday, May 18
These deep dives into specific subjects will take place on Monday morning.
- Build Your IEC AI Engine
- Inclusive Higher Ed Environments for All Students
- Studying In the UK – From Application to Graduation
Pre- and Post-Conference Tours
May 18, 20–21
We are pleased to offer campus tours for 51³Ô¹Ï members before and after the conference. See info on campus tours.
Conference registration is now open!
Visit our webpage for details and to register.